Numerical analysis of energy dynamics in a bladeless turbine nozzle

Abstract

A bladeless Tesla turbine, patented by Nikola Tesla in 1913, uses rotating discs to convert fluid flow energy into mechanical energy through viscosity and surface adhesion. This study presents the design, fabrication, and testing of a Tesla turbine with 100-mm diameter discs, a central exhaust, and replaceable nozzles. Computer-aided design modeling and computational fluid dynamics simulations optimized geometry, nozzle placement, and internal energy distribution, revealing insights into viscous losses and turbulence effects. Tested under pressures of 3–5 bar, the prototype achieved a peak efficiency of 8%, aligning with numerical predictions. These findings highlight the potential for bladeless turbines in low-pressure, micropower renewable applications.